This is one of the few films that can brag of being considered one of the greatest family trauma with William Friedkin cult film “The Exorcist.” Adapted from a novel by Ira Levin and directed by the talented Roman Polanski. When it was released, it became a critical and public success and it became a classic fantasy film. During the first hour, Polanski takes time to set up the main story, which is counted under an ambiance and setting up oppressive scene composed of several dolly-track shots of exorbitant symmetry and also sequence shots, especially during the dialog scenes.

Characterized by classic dim of decor light, a typical of thriller films of 60′s era, for me this really intensifies the thrilling tones of the film. I admit that some sequences are also stunning as well as confusing, mainly Rosemary dream sequence that is a mix between reality and the subconscious of the latter, this scene is composed of abstract images and overlays, giving the viewer a sense of permanent vertigo throughout the film.

Another interesting point to note, besides the impeccable acting, is that framing techniques vary depending on the stability of the main character, at the end of the film, unlike the first, the frames have an intense nervousness that supports the imbalance of Rosemary and shares her feelings and anxieties. In conclusion, the real strength of this work lies in the way it gives a feeling of constant unrest towards the disturbing ending.

Southpaw is in my opinion, one of the best and the most beautiful sports drama films that I have ever seen. It is poignant, moving, gritty but very beautiful. This film is a beautiful demonstration of the complexity of life, shown through boxing. It is above all the struggle of a man who has lost everything after reaching fame. This film mixes a lot of emotion, we may find ourselves get carried away in its boxing scenes and then a few minutes later moved in tears because it’s very sad.

I would say that Antoine Fuqua once again delivered his best directing skills through this film. This is so good that I think comparing this with Raging Bull, Ali and Million Dollar Baby is fine. Each of its predecessor has its own goodies that we all can enjoy. Although the scenario is not original, the film is spot on. Jake Gyllenhaal is excellent as always and the great Forest Whitaker is also wonderful in his own way.

Combining the two talented actors has been a great decision. What resulted from combining Jake Gyllenhaal and Forest Whitaker? A masterpiece. The way Jake Gyllenhaal metamorphoses from one film to another has always impressed me more and more. In conclusion, Southpaw is powerful film that holds us spellbound for two hours and it’s your task to watch it and ask yourself if you agree with me.

Jonathan Glazer is a quite talented filmmaker, 10 years after directing Birth, he delivered a hypnotic and fascinating work through “Under The Skin”. Despite the rather confusing (I avoid using the word “boring”) plot at the beginning, this film turns to deliver its real quality as we keep on wondering who is this lonesome gorgeous woman driving alone in a van.

WARNING: SPOILER ALERT!

What’s even more interesting is that the film is a very interesting allegory about the power of seduction that women have on men by feeding their lowest instincts and returning to the primitive stage where they don’t think more and are mesmerized by their seductress and finally become completely unaware of danger. As the plot goes on, you will see that this film also rich in metaphors, unlike its predecessors, “Under The Skin” refused to show the original look of an alien (I hate giving spoilers but what the hell). In a glance, this science fiction film might look like a B-movie, the scenario is flat at the beginning but wait up longer and see the goodies behind it.

Our charming character, Laura, is played by the stunning Scarlett Johansson. In my opinion, the choice of casting Johansson is quite reasonable, I think. Who won’t be lured easily by an attractive woman? And this I believe is the reason Glazer wanted Johansson to represent Laura as the charming predator. The film described Laura as the representation of fantasy, an unattainable dream, a femme fatale whose seductive power is without limit.

In regards to the setting, apart from Scotland is the actual setting in the novel which this film adapted, also contributes to the atmospheric mystery that surrounds the film. I just love the stunning scenery of Scotland suburbs. The use of hidden camera techniques, the sensational retina shots, the hypnotic music tracks and again the choice of having Johansson are really a joy to our sensory as well as giving the film the feel of being authentic. In short, all the work’s virtuosity above can be found here and Jonathan Glazer just had it transcribed perfectly.

This film was considered the most violent film of all time when it was released. This was the eighth feature film by Stanley Kubrick and it has long been controversial and was accused of trivializing the free and youth violence. However, this film is now regarded as one of the major works of the filmmaker.

Alex DeLarge is a young man who is interested mainly rape, ultra-violence and Beethoven, isn’t amazing how Kubrick contrasted violence with classical musics? The film is divided into two or three parts more or less distinct. The first, it takes us into the world of this young Alex and his Droogs kingdoms and their obsession on violence, sex and crime. The second reveals his serving time in prison and then along comes the denouement; what is done to Alex, the new Alex, what he has become.

In my opinion, Malcolm McDowell did great in portraying Alex, though at first he had no idea who Kubrick was:

“When offered the part, McDowell mistakenly thought the director was Stanley Kramer, the filmmaker behind movies like It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World and Judgment at Nuremberg. It wasn’t until McDowell’s friend and If…. director Lindsay Anderson showed him Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey that the actor realized who the director was.” (source: MentalFloss)

Now whenever one mentions A Clockwork Orange, it is the face of Malcolm McDowell that comes immediately to mind. And it is through the innocent eyes of Malcolm McDowell, its mischievous humor, and his disturbing look the viewer was taken through time, to witness an incredible social satire of his era.

In conclusion, this is a masterpiece among masterpieces and it may be safe to consider this film as the ultimate gem of Stanley Kubrick. This film maybe violent, too violent, mainly psychological, but on the other hand is also fascinating. Despite its controversy, A Clockwork Orange was never pulled from US theaters and even nominated for Best Picture and three other Oscars, including Best Director for Kubrick and Best Adapted Screenplay for the script. This film won all four categories at the ceremony and earned a place in history.

In my library, I put “Gone Girl” under the label of thriller; yet, it’s not an ordinary thriller. I heard that it was the most anticipated and talked about film in Fall 2014. In my opinion, it has amazing unimaginable twists synonymous with the excellent David Fincher. You may consider the plot exaggerating but on the contrary, I find it makes sense, I mean it all can happen to any marriage. Like most films in general, this film shows what needs to be shown by the genre but as time passes, it starts to deliver suspense and mystery telling us that look can be deceiving, that we should never judge a book by its cover and so on. You start wondering what is really happening to what seems to be a perfect couple until finally we are forced to see the awful truth.

Despite the length of the film, I will assure you that you will remain glued to your seat from beginning to end as mthe story unfolds. I see strong dark tone here and no doubt, David Fincher’s direction is awesome. Besides David Fincher’s masterful composition, this great thriller also owes its success to its actors especially Rosamund Pike who portrays Mrs. Perfect whom anybody envies and how lucky is Ben Affleck to have her and here the deception starts slowly.

Well, I must say that I was too captivated by this haunting thriller. David Fincher skillfully plays with our minds as well as perceptions brilliantly, feeding us with the pretense, false leads, and most importantly the different point of views of the characters. The diabolic scenario, the virtuosity of the film/editing techniques and once again the staging have resulted into an impressively clever thriller that is so difficult to criticize without giving out spoilers. I highly recommend this thriller, those who love Fincher should not be disappointed. “Gone Girl” is an excellent thriller, great drama and great satire, and is exciting from beginning to end.

Peter Segal gives us a hilarious comedy, sometimes even sweet and moving, a film that wins the hearts of the audience, especially those who have witnessed the two actors' related roles, boxers. The plot is centered on the historic rivalry of the two protagonists Billy "The Kid" McDonnen and Henry "Razor" Sharp, played respectively by De Niro and Stallone, retired boxers who are about to have one last epic fight 30 years after their final fight.

At first I thought that pairing two legendary roles of Jake LaMotta and Rocky Balboa, Raging Bull VS Rocky was disastrous but I was wrong lol. I realize that this film is not the film of the century but it is quite entertaining. The strength of this film lies in its actors, of course, but not only the main actors, this also goes for the supporting ones such as Alan Arkin, Kevin Hart as well as the ever lovely Kim Basinger. Not only that, this film is also packed with humors and the two elements above, in my opinion, help strengthen the simple movie plot. In conclusion, the title says it all, De Niro and Stallone, two giant moviestars confront each other in the ring and in life. A comedy that gives us a great and really funny entertainment.

The ultimate showdown between Rocky Balboa and Jake LaMotta....30 years later....﻿

By the time I heard that 47 Ronin would be remade, my mind traveled far to the glorious day of Kagemusha or to be fair, to a recent past, when The Last Samurai was just released. 47 Ronin, in my opinion, should have been able to visualize the great experience or at least the visual to one of the most iconic moments in the Japanese history. I finally watched the film last night on DVD, I could see that recreating an epic had been a heavy task, I would say that the storyline on which this film was based on is fantastic, the wardrobe/costumes are also lavish and not to forget the great cinemaphotography. In short, the digital effects (special effects) are very cool, it's like a full demonstration of modern day cinema, what it is capable of. The story, the actors, costumes, sets, tradition depiction, special effects, music, everything is absolutely perfect. Two hours of pure happiness in 3D.

HOWEVER.....(what follows would be a bit negative)...in my humble opinion, this film lacks the grande elements (my way of saying 'epic'). The use of special effects is a way too much, I understand the necessary use of CGI but properly. I hate the way this film 'betrays' the originality of the historical event by portraying 'the beast'. The CGI landscape is also annoying, the supposedly-great film felt 'fake'. Despite the adequate and neat final art direction, '47 Ronin' ends up looking like a B film, destroying the prospect of achieving its blockbuster status. This film should have been more emphasizing the emotional content, the sacred tradition and codes of the bushido where "words are mightier than swords" saying really implemented. Too bad, this film really had great potential but the advancement of technology ruined it all. Forgive me Mister Rinsch : )

Released in November 2012, directed by Ben Affleck, Argo was quite well-acknowledged as successful by many critics and the public, it gained several prestigious awards, from the Oscar for Best Film to the Golden Globes for Best Drama and Best Director for Ben Affleck and the César for Best Foreign Film. It is simply a great movie. In fact for me it is a masterpiece and unforgettable cult now. Argo is inspired by a true story of how six Americans managed to escape from Iran through a crazy exfiltration operation conducted by the CIA, through the well-written scenario, Ben Affleck really made way to the glorious path as a director, following his previous highly acclaimed Gone Baby Gone and The Town. The storytelling technique is gripping, I would say, it carefully maintains the suspense from the beginning to the end. It is just beautifully executed with an impressive realism and tension in a somewhat balanced necessity.

Argo also showcases neat photography too, I could almost say that Affleck really masters all the film elements the way great filmmakers do. Argo has a suspense that could be described as an amazing, stunning and terribly stressful. This feeling of anxiety is present at every stage and film shots as the interface is neat and well mastered by a great filmmaker now. Argo is definitely one of those films that have made me more anxious or afraid of what I've seen so far! The storyline of this movie is brilliantly executed and has a breathtaking suspense. With all those glorious beauty and also the devastating political intrigues, Argo does not just talk about a desperate rescue, it tells an amazing true story with a suspense that will haunt you after seeing it.

2 Guns is far from a masterpiece but completely fulfills the requirements of solid entertainment. I watched this last night and it was indeed quite entertaining. This was my first Kormákur experience and he did more than just directing an entertaining film. Though this film doesn't really offer something new other than gun-fighting, bomb-blasting, deception and payback (even stated many times "Payback is a bitch"), this film offers us enough witty dialog, comedy and absolutely decent action. The chemistry between Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg is also a bit surprising, I thought it really saves the common film's packaging. And I had a real pleasure to see Denzel Washington in an action comedy! Edward James Olmos also contributed to the soul of this film no matter how small his role is. With some unexpected twists from beginning to end, overall, this film is worth watching.﻿

Eros is just beautiful. It is a combo pack of film consisting of three shorts on eroticism, sensuality and love directed by three famous film directors. “The Hand” Wong Kar-wai, “Equilibrium” (Steven Soderbergh) and “The Dangerous Thread of Things” by Michelangelo Antonioni. The wonderful thing about this film is that each short gives us certain fascination towards sensuality and also has subtlety in terms of the photography and gorgeous film staging in the style of each film’s director. We are talking about a work of art, a signature film of great director.

In short, “Eros” really awakens our senses of sexuality and our view about sensuality, sex and desire but, all of those taboos are visualized in friendly atmosphere kudos to the remarkable production design. The last but not least is the captivating soundtrack that complements the visual aesthetic beautifully. It is an elegant and classy and a beautiful recreation of eroticism. Generally, the three short films are all good so that it is difficult (if not impossible) to be impartial and not opt for one of the three, but if “Eros” were a concert, Antonioni and Soderbergh would be the “opening acts” for Wong Kar-Wai and this is just my opinion.

This excellent film offers a rarity in films of recent times, a story in which the thriller and drama are wonderfully blended for the viewers, giving them enjoyment and understanding of both the evaluation of the characters and the plot of the story. Clint Eastwood gave us this dark thriller, an exciting and touching character study about emotional grief, guilt and friendship. The strength of this film lies in its plot, a complex tragedy that brings up deep trauma. I love how Eastwood introduced us to our three protagonists, Jimmy Markum (Sean Penn), Dave Boyle (Tim Robbins) and Sean Devine (Kevin Bacon), each with his own view of the world and through them, we can see their past that triggered their traumatic lives.

I admit, it is a very hard film, but with its great realism, it makes the viewers immersed in a world that nobody wants to see, but it really exists. I was impressed a lot, and was not expecting much from it, but I was wrong. This film is a real acting duel between Sean Penn and Tim Robbins (two of my favorite character actors) although this doesn't mean that Kevin Bacon played terrible. Eastwood's strong narrative structure with sublime storytelling could somehow deliver fascinating thriller that revolves around the lives of the three friends.

I think it's an extraordinary film at all levels. The script is unique even though it's based on a novel, the actors are mostly unconvincing but the suspense is quite good until the end. and let's not forget the Black humor. One can not help but feel empathy for all the teens sent to death. In my humble opinion, this is Takeshi Kitano's way of telling the world that he could produce a blockbuster even with a limited budget. He really did his best production by far, and it hit in all aspects of the film. The cast, despite being unknown to the common public, they are perfectly selected. The rather absurd idea behind the plot (I'm sure you know what I'm referring) turned out to be the strong point of the film.

Some say that this film is a criticism towards Japanese society especially to those who are capable intellectually but somehow get eliminated in the competition of life. Moreover, this film is innovative and very well produced, and that includes the subtle special effects despite being pretty simple, it achieves its purpose. For many, it may simply be a violent movie, but I think of it as a great cult film and it provides a vision of possible future. The film is a must for anyone who likes Japanese films and to my belief, Kitano is a pioneer in this type. It has action, a little gore and fun. I strongly recommend that you see it for yourself.

Cinderella Man ​​to my surprise is one of the best movies I've seen in my life. One of those films that you enjoy as a cinephile. It's a glossy film production directed by Ron Howard that is based on a true story. After retiring from boxing, James J. Braddock decided return to the ring at the time of the Great Depression in order to feed his family. The strength of this film lies in its elegant setting, the magnificent picture, the brilliance of the dialogue, the spectacularly moving soundtrack and also the astounding performances from Russell Crowe and Paul Giamatti best embroidering his role. I also find Zelwegger was great in her role as Mrs. Braddock, quite touching.

I just don't understand why nobody appreciated the three to win The Oscar. From my point of view, Cinderella Man ​​deserves to be nominated for the Oscars in the following sections: Film, Director, Leading Actor, Supporting Actor, Adapted Screenplay, Cinematography and Production Design. I think any movie lover without prejudice should consider this film as the highlight of an entire season simply because there were not any quite decent films then. Sadly, Howard had no other choice than to accept his impeccably and most entertaining film only ranked at number 42 of the highest grossing film of 2005.

I notice that often times films directed by Gallo are mostly absurd but also fascinating. They're extra-ordinarily different from others, artsy, just like his Buffalo 66. Here Gallo obtained a predicate of both good actor and director. As for the case with "The Brown Bunny", the most boring film I've ever seen except for that thing with Sevigny. This film is simple, as simple as life, or as complex as life depending how you look. I think in the simplest things, there is more than apparent complexity. Bud Clay (Gallo) is a motorcycle racer, a loner who fulfills each day feeling empty, trying hard to forget Daisy, his past girlfriend. His loneliness is uniquely described in this film with long silence in most of the scenes, the near absence of script, the use of sporadic music that reminds us a little of our joys and our doubts and our sorrows and our solitude, silence and nothing much we played music in life, there is witty dialogue with people all the time and people are generally apathetic or ignorant or just not interested in our problems. In this sense, Gallo's filming style fits reality.

The Brown Bunny is once again a very unique film. A film that hardly speaks. A film in which most of the scenes are seen through the windshield of a truck. There is not anything more to see. What can you tell? What can you conclude from watching this absurdity? Is it fun, or is it depressing? It's the dark side of the technological age. In this sense, the fact that a man (or woman) unknown approaching a lone service area to kiss a stranger is one of the most beautiful and sentimental moments in American cinema today. It is more a wish than a reality. This is even worsened as Gallo seemed to dedicate nothingness and emptiness in his film. It is as if he wanted to really literally visualized the emptiness that Bud experienced daily. No splendid scenery, no greens and modern buildings, only deserts and dusty places but once again, it's Vincent Gallo and his brilliance. As for the final scene, which I will avoid giving spoilers, reveal everything you want to know. One more thing, some of you might consider every visual in the film as symbolic while some other may think of it as pure visual.

Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu returned to direct his fourth film. Compared to his previous 3 films, Biutiful is even more radical and gloomy. He introduced us to Uxbal (awesomely portrayed by Javier Bardem), a delicate portrait of a man breathing his dying breath, constantly fighting with everything that surrounds him and while trying to be at peace with himself before he died. This film is tragic and beautiful at the same time. The overall film ambiance is also gloomy, the color tone is grayish blue, which I think represents the coldness of his life and the inevitability of his fate. In contrast with the gloomy atmosphere and the sad story, Rodrigo Prieto as the cinematographer, in his 4th collaboration with Inarritu, provides us with visual poetry. As for Javier Bardem, his acting seriously gave impacts to the viewers, we feel his pain, his loneliness and also sufferings. It's like standing on his shoes, fighting for the life in order to have a decent and peaceful death.

The filming process, from script-writing until completed, took 3,5 years and it was filmed in chronological order. The setting of "Biutiful" is Barcelona, a city described so beautifully as a tourist attraction (at least the way it is usually portrayed in postcards) but here, it is described as a land of decorated waste and poverty. A land of cocaine, poverty, prostitution, labor exploitation. An unfortunate abyss that perfectly reflects the reality of their daily life, the reality of marginalized, immigrants, refugees and foreigners who try any trick to survive. There is no redemption, no hope for anyone.

So what's so beautiful with it and what does the title refer to? In my opinion, there is nothing 'Biutiful' except, perhaps, the hope that lurks in the eyes of Mateo and that his expectation of a reward trip in the Pyrenees. It is It is not a film for everyone but everyone should see it at least once.

With the release of "Run Lola Run", German cinema is renewed by the original work directed by Tom Tykwer. This fast-paced film is divided in 3 alternate scenarios where each one of them shows the unique experience of Lola (Franka Potente) who tries many ways to save his boyfriend, Manny, who faces big problems with the mob when he accidentally forgot to take their money from the subway he rode. As mentioned earlier, each sequence is unique since every little thing Lola does has its own consequences and that can be a fatal one. The audience is invited into Lola's mind as she plans the perfect formula to overcome the difficult situation while also learns from her failures that force her to try and try again.

I would say that this is a nice indie film since every aspect in the film such as the Techno ambiance, the film pace, editing styles (split-screens), the camera movements and also the changing camera angles in each scenario strengthen the uniqueness of the work and make it a breathless thriller. The use of steady camera, mounted in front of Lola also gives a magical touch to the work itself. In conclusion, "Run Lola Run" is fascinating, it gives thriller a brand new look. If you haven't seen it, I'd suggest you to race against the clock with Lola, a new golden age of German cinema.

Daniel Hillard (Willams) is a loving father and husband. His children consider him a wonderful father, but his wife is tired of him acting childish. After a rough divorce, both are fighting with all their might to get custody of the children and Daniel lost. He then decides to disguise himself as an old lady just to be able to get to his children. In my opinion, this is where Robin Williams really shows what he does best, acting the way others find it difficult. Moreover, the character he plays awesomely creates an even more charismatic character.

Williams has always been my favorite actor for the roles he plays, needless to say it’s one of the best comedy films I’ve seen. It has lots of comical moments, funny gags, memorable dialog and also definitely emotional ride. The idea behind this film is serious, a problematic family on the brink of a divorce and all of these are seen from the perspective of the children who are the victims of it. However, despite its strong theme, it’s cleverly visualized in humorous situations.

Anyway, despite having a pretty slow start, it’s really a nice film that combines a bit of “Mary Poppins” and “Nanny McPhee”. Although the rest of the cast is also very good (Sally Field and Pierce Brosnan), Robin Williams stands with his charisma as he’s continually being the soul of the film.

I'm not a regular fan of Terry Gilliam but I find his recent films such as "12 Monkeys" and "Fear and Loathing In Las Vegas" never failed to draw my attention. I can say that there are absolutely other good movies, entertaining and well made just like his past films. But in the case of "Tideland" I must say that Gilliam has created a masterpiece. It is such a beautiful tale from the creative perspective. This magical tale kind of reminds me of "Alice in Wonderland" and also "Big Fish". In my opinion, the film really shows its full potential such as stunning picture, sublime film direction as well as the fabulous camera works that give us amazing shots. I also admire the girl (Jodelle Ferland) whom, despite her young age, can become a great actress and that's very difficult.

One of the reasons I have always deeply admired this director is for the characteristics that reminds us of great filmmakers over the history of cinema (Welles, Kubrick, Lynch); however, Gilliam definitely doesn't go with the flowing trend. Terry Gilliam, remains steadfast to his personality and filming styles,freely doing whatever he feels like in his films without fearing that anyone may get lost trying to interpret what's shown. That is the case with Tideland, for those of you who love surrealism in film, certainly this is the one to see. Here, we are taken to see Gilliam's imagination through the mind of a girl who is immersed in a world of dreams, running away and ignoring the reality that she lives daily. We will experience how living inside her magical atmosphere really helps her forgetting her painful memories so that she can cope with her life. The beginning might seem a bit hard but wait, soon you will be sucked into the fantastic story.

Billy Elliot is an 11 year old boy who one day decides to change his boxing gloves with ballet slippers. The child is delighted with his new activities until his father, Jackie (Gary Lewis), discovers his passion. It was from that moment that Billy must face his family, and strive to achieve a dream that, at that time: "It was only for girls." From the beginning of the film, the script is full of rhythm. The argument seems to focus on what the writer wants to show the viewer: constant variables of emotional moments that are sometimes feel a bit comical. Director Stephen Daldry inserted a true event, the 1984 coal miners strike, as the background of the story. With a plot so simple yet extraordinary and unpretentious, good script and uplifting soundtrack, Billy Elliot is a must for you who love British films. What Billy faces can also be faced by any of us, conflicting interest of what we want to do and what they want us to do. Jamie Bell and Julie Walters are exceptional.

The film is excellent from beginning to end Both Wahlberg and Bale gave flawless and wonderful performances. This film is not about boxing; instead, it uses the sport only as a background context. Those who considered Mark Wahlberg's performance as insufficient clearly don't see the idea behind this film. Christian Bale also played terrific, though only appeared in his supporting role, he managed to do so fantastically. I adore his sacrifice in appearing so deteriorated just like he did in The Machinist. The Fighter is about a boxer who had to be in the shadow of his brother and his ambition, he was just a puppet for his mom and brother to remind them what they might become, well great work, majestic, deserves many awards for all its actors and its director. It's the story about a guy who is fighting for their family and lives, from the failure of life. I guess you should try to enjoy this film in its glorious simplicity.

]]>EkyThe sparks of controversyhttp://letterboxd.com/s13ky/list/the-sparks-of-controversy/ letterboxd-list-21186Wed, 7 Mar 2012 22:39:48 +1300Several films considered controversial resulting in severe cut or even a ban because of its sexuality, racism, blood-display, gore or violence.